Patrick Maun <patrick_at_patrickmaun.com> wrote: >Hey all,...I have the Lotus EFT backpack. >... >I have an early Lotus Rio Grande that I got before they developed their >specific sea kayaking vests and it really adds some functionality to >it. I have that same older Rio Grande and love the vest. (for fit, anyway). Like Rev. Bob, I'm breaking the law and modified my PFD. I used Aquaseal to glue retroreflective ribbon to the shoulders, and a long horizontal line of the stuff across the top of the back panel. I also stitched on webbing loops on the back and tubular fabric casings behind the pockets for a tow belt (just like their newer vests--otherwise the contents of your pockets are squished flat and inaccessible when wearing the tow belt). I didn't want to stop using a perfectly functional PFD just because it lacked the features I wanted. The downside is that I won't ever use it as a "loaner" PFD because it isn't technically legal. I will probably further modify it by adding a small, high, back pocket (as soon as I can find some matching bright-yellow Cordura) and a tiny elastic front shoulder whistle pocket like some Canadian PFD's have. I'll also add a very short strip of 3/4" webbing and a camlock buckle down low on the right side to make a quick-release for the tow belt's carabiner (like Kokatat uses). I also have a completely illegal and ultra-functional handmade PFD knockoff of my Rio Grande. I used the Ethafoam from a cheapie Stearns ski PFD, supplemented by an extra inch in the chest of Ethafoam from a sleeping pad. (18-19lbs. total) It has a back pocket, tow belt attachments, retroreflective tape everywhere, extra lash tabs, and whistle pocket. If anyone feels the need to flame me, go ahead. I've made my decision and feel I'm safer than I would be with the equivalent original or approved vest. It's my responsibility to keep myself safe; it is not the Government's job to protect me from myself (even though the law reads that way). Illegal but safe, Shawn Send FREE Valentine eCards with Yahoo! Greetings! http://greetings.yahoo.com *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Fri Feb 08 2002 - 08:30:42 PST
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